What do we mean by hormonal skin?
Hormonal skin is also known as hormonal acne, which refers to acne that happens due to hormonal fluctuations, and in particular, an increased level of androgens. Hormonal break-outs usually appear on the lower section of your face, such as the chin, jawline and neck.
How do you know if your break-outs are hormonal acne?
Have you been told by a doctor that you have a hormonal imbalance? Are you going through fertility treatment? Are you hitting puberty or menopause? Do you suffer with stress or anxiety? Are you on birth control? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, then you probably have hormonal acne.
Can you improve hormonal acne with the right skincare regime?
Good news, yes! Improvements can be made; however, there is no magic recipe, as hormones are a very powerful source in our bodies.
Skincare for hormonal acne
Please remember that it’s important to know your skin type (e.g. normal, dry, oily/combination or sensitive), and your skin concern (which in this case is hormonal acne). Please don’t just run out and purchase a full skincare range for hormonal acne, as this is likely to only occur once a month.
Skincare Routine for Hormonal Acne
- Cleanser (AM & PM): Use a gentle cleanser that leaves your skin feeling clean, fresh, and hydrated, such as the Almond Cleansing Milk. Consider double cleansing at night if you wear heavy makeup or live in a polluted area.
- Toner (AM & PM): Follow cleansing with a refreshing toner like the Lemon Toner to enhance the efficacy of subsequent products.
- Serum (AM or PM or both): Apply a serum like the Hibiscus Serum. Adjust usage based on your skin’s needs, such as using it both mornings and evenings, or during specific periods.
- Moisturiser (AM & PM): Avoid mineral oil-based moisturisers and instead opt for the Aloe Face Cream to hydrate your skin without clogging pores.
- Exfoliator (Not daily): Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells and unblock pores. Avoid over-scrubbing to prevent stimulating excess sebum production.
- Face Oil (At least once a week): Massage your face with an oil like the Rose Face Oil to brighten and detoxify. Apply it under a mask for deeper absorption.
- Mask: Increase mask usage during hormonal breakouts. Use masks like the Irene Forte Skincare Lavender Tetra-Acid Mask on specific breakout areas.
Recommended Treatments for Hormonal Acne
- Spa treatments can help reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
- Monthly facials can help manage and clear up skin during breakouts.
- Consult a dermatologist for treatments like topical retinoids, antibiotics, or oral contraceptives.
If hands on treatments are not for you, how about going in a sauna or steam room? These detoxify and help to clear complexions. Working out is also great to release endorphins, lowering stress.
Can lifestyle changes improve hormonal acne?
Yes, lifestyle changes can improve things; however, they cannot completely stop hormonal break-outs. Here are some lifestyle changes to improve hormonal acne:
- Reduce salt intake, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated.
- Eat a balanced diet with foods rich in collagen, iron, and potassium.
- Limit smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Address seasonal allergies with over-the-counter antihistamines.
It’s also important to eat a balanced diet with all the colours of the rainbow. Irene Forte Skincare is the ‘Mediterranean diet for the skin’, so it will topically aid in completing the bits missing from your skin’s health. Also, staying hydrated keeps skin at its optimal level of radiance and helps to cleanse our entire body.
Additional Tips
- Avoid picking or squeezing spots to prevent further irritation.
- Use tea tree oil in a vaporiser for its antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties.
- Incorporate a Clarisonic brush into your cleansing routine for extra congestion relief.
- Use mineral makeup to conceal breakouts and enhance your confidence.
Remember, you're not alone in dealing with skin problems. Many specialists are available to help you manage and improve your skin health.
